Andre Dias will be out probably until 2013. This news hit Vladimir Petkovic today. The Brazilian defender is one of the most important players for Lazio this season. He went off the pitch in the 20th minute against Juventus this Saturday, when Lazio managed a 0:0 at the Juventus stadium.

Petkovic will have to turn most likely to Michael Ciani. It was the Frenchman who subbed Dias against Juventus. Ciani pulled a strong performance, making him the main candidate for the place next to Biava in the Biancocelesti backline.

Other possibilities for coach Petkovic could be Lorik Cana and Modibo Diakite. While the Albanian was just recently tested as a central defender, Diakite is having problems solving up his contract issues and that put him on the bench. The absence of Andre Dias however, could be a chance for both of them to step up and show their worth.